Penne alla Norma is a traditional Sicilian pasta dish, featuring fried eggplant, a rich tomato sauce, and ricotta salata cheese. It’s a perfect balance of savory, tangy, and creamy flavors, making it a beloved Italian favorite!
Ingredients (Serves 4–6)
✅ Base Ingredients:
- 12 oz penne pasta 🍝
- 1 large eggplant, cut into cubes 🍆
- 2 tbsp olive oil 🛢️
- 3 cloves garlic, minced 🧄
- 1 can (14 oz) crushed tomatoes 🍅
- ½ tsp red chili flakes (optional) 🌶️
- ½ tsp dried oregano 🌿
- Salt & black pepper, to taste 🧂
✅ To Garnish:
- ½ cup ricotta salata, grated 🧀
- ¼ cup fresh basil leaves 🌿
Instructions:
Step 1: Cook the Eggplant
1️⃣ Heat olive oil in a large pan over medium heat.
2️⃣ Add cubed eggplant and sauté until golden brown and tender.
3️⃣ Remove from the pan and set aside.
Step 2: Prepare the Tomato Sauce
4️⃣ In the same pan, sauté garlic until fragrant.
5️⃣ Add crushed tomatoes, chili flakes, oregano, salt, and pepper.
6️⃣ Simmer for 15 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Step 3: Cook the Pasta
7️⃣ Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
8️⃣ Cook penne until al dente, then drain.
Step 4: Combine Everything
9️⃣ Add fried eggplant to the tomato sauce and mix well.
🔟 Toss in the cooked penne and stir to coat evenly.
Step 5: Serve & Enjoy
🍽️ Garnish with ricotta salata and fresh basil.
🥄 Serve hot and enjoy this Sicilian masterpiece!
Buon Appetito! 🇮🇹
This flavorful and comforting dish is a true taste of Sicily, combining simple yet bold ingredients.
✨ Extra Tips:
👉 Try roasting the eggplant instead of frying for a lighter version! 🔥